By Norm Needleman, State Senator.
Storm Preparation for Tropical Storm Isaias
Connecticut will continue to be under a tropical storm warning this week as Tropical Storm Isaias, which is expected to strengthen as it passes Florida today and makes landfall in North Carolina as a hurricane tonight. As the storm continues to power up the East Coast, the tropical storm warning will remain in effect. Connecticut is expected to be impacted by the storm from roughly the early afternoon through the early evening Tuesday, with the most significant rain and wind expected from the early evening to around 9 p.m. High winds, heavy rain and possible power outages and flooding are possible as a result of the storm; however, it is expected to move fast and usher in seasonable, enjoyable weather for several days after it departs.
Please see below for some basic tips on severe weather and hurricane preparedness:
- Charge your electronic devices especially cell phones
- Listen often to radio and TV to track a storm’s progress
- Top-off your vehicles with gas
- Ensure you have extra cash on hand
- Check batteries and stock up on first aid supplies and medications
- Bring in lightweight, outdoor objects such as garbage cans, toys and lawn furniture
- Make sure your rain gutters and downspouts are clear of debris
- Plan an inland evacuation route in case you have to leave your home
- Notify neighbors and a family member of your evacuation plans
- Review your homeowner’s insurance policy
- Learn the locations of local storm shelters
New Connecticut Business Website
The state recently launched Business.ct.gov, a new one-stop business website for Connecticut that consolidates information, resources and requirements for businesses from multiple state agencies in one place. This new “digital front door” is designed to cut through the complicated processes of starting and operating a business, with highlights including tools to help members of the public start their businesses; resources to help companies manage their taxes, attain licenses, access financial assistance, and hire new employees; and powerful resources for the COVID-19 era to support businesses currently searching for more assistance.
This website pulls resources from five state agencies, including the Secretary of the State and the Departments of Consumer Protection, Economic and Community Development, Labor and Revenue Services; more information will be added in time.
Comcast Offering Free, Low-Cost Internet Options
With the threat of COVID-19 still impacting our communities and the upcoming school year set to start in the next month, many families are likely in need of options for internet access. Comcast continues to offer two free months of internet service to new customers through its Internet Essentials programs, committed to keeping low-income families connected to schools and other educational resources. Comcast also offers its Internet Essentials Sponsored Service Program, in which partners such as schools and healthcare providers can sponsor or pay for internet services for eligible members and families at a cost of $10 per month per household. If an organization can arrange sponsored internet services for at least 25 applicants new to the program for at least six months, they meet service agreement requirements. For more information on these programs, please click here.
New Web Portal to Help Folks Apply for Temporary Rental Housing Assistance
The state Department of Housing has launched a web portal for folks to apply for temporary rental housing assistance. The state had created this program to respond to housing issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial priority for assistance will be given to individuals and families who have been denied unemployment assistance from the Department of Labor. To apply online for assistance, you can click here.
Virtual Public Meeting On Westbrook Bridge Project To Be Held September 3
The Department of Transportation has announced it will hold a public meeting on the proposed repairs to Bridge 00230, which carries Willard Avenue over Interstate 95 in Westbrook, on Thursday, September 3 at 5:30 p.m. This project addresses the bridge deck’s poor condition, with its most recent inspection in September 2019 finding it to be in poor condition, with deck deterioration of nearly 10 percent. Additional structural repairs and beam painting are needed to rehabilitate existing rolled steel girders in fair condition. Due to the deck’s damage, this is intended to be a deck replacement with full beam painting, including a 10-week road closure in the summer of 2022 with associated detours to allow for the full replacement. Construction for the project is currently estimated to cost $5 million, with $4 million of that to come from federal funds.
The public meeting will allow members of the local community to ask questions or offer comments regarding the project, and a public comment period is open through Thursday, September 17. The virtual public hearing will be livestreamed on September 3 at 5:30 p.m. over Microsoft Teams and YouTube Live.
Links to the livestream and documents expected to be presented at that meeting are available at https://portal.ct.gov/DOTWestbrook0154-0125.
